Air Pollution Continues Decline at Port of Long Beach

Diesel air pollution from ships, trucks, trains and other big machines at the Port of Long Beach has declined by 82 percent since 2005, a comprehensive air quality analysis has found. The report – which focuses on 2013 – shows seven straight years of steadily declining air pollution from goods movement in the harbor area.

Compared to emissions levels in 2005 — when the port adopted its Green Port Policy — all of the key air pollutants from port-related sources have declined in 2013. In addition to the drop in diesel emissions, smog-forming nitrogen oxides and sulfur oxides have been cut 54 percent and 90 percent respectively. Emissions from port operations have plunged even as shipping activity has increased slightly, with containerized cargo up 0.3 percent since 2005.

Air pollution reductions are due to the ongoing shift to bigger ships that carry more cargo more efficiently, as well as newer ships with cleaner engines, increased utilization of on-dock rail and shore power, and regulations requiring ships to use cleaner, lower sulfur fuel in their engines. Other efforts, like the Clean Trucks Program, have also helped to cut emissions.

“The Port of Long Beach is able to achieve these reductions through its deep commitment to environmental improvement and sustainability. And we want to bring more zero-emissions technology to the port and continue to be the world’s greenest seaport,” said Long Beach Board of Harbor Commissioners President Doug Drummond.

The report released Monday examined data from 2013. The study's results were reviewed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the California Air Resources Board and the South Coast Air Quality Management District.

The annual analysis of air pollution from port sources ― literally an “emissions inventory” ― is conducted to check the port’s progress in improving air quality. For the complete emissions inventory, go to www.polb.com/emissions.